A Trailblazer in Radiation Protection: The Journey of Chadia Rizk
Chadia Rizk’s journey in the field of radiation protection and dosimetry began in 2005, shortly after she completed her master’s degree in Material Science and Electronic Components in 2004. Her academic achievements paved the way for her to become the Technical Manager at the Individual Monitoring Laboratory at the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission. In this pivotal role, she has been instrumental in overseeing the safe occupational radiation exposure for more than 6,000 workers across over 400 healthcare facilities, industrial companies, and research centers.
Understanding and managing radiation exposure is crucial in a variety of fields, including radiology, nuclear medicine, and radiation therapy. This is where dosimetry, the measurement and calculation of the radiation dose absorbed by the human body or other objects, comes into play. Rizk emphasizes the importance of dosimetry, highlighting its role in ensuring the safe and effective use of radiation.
Under Rizk’s leadership, the Lebanese laboratory achieved ISO accreditation, a significant milestone as it was the first laboratory of its kind in the Middle East to receive such recognition. This accreditation set a new standard for the quality and safety of radiation protection for workers exposed to radiation across the region. Bilal Nsouli, the Director General of the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission and Rizk’s former professor during her master’s studies, praised her efforts, noting that her contributions have consistently raised standards and improved practices in the field.
In 2007, Rizk expanded her impact by collaborating with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Initially joining as a fellow, she later became a key counterpart in four projects under the IAEA’s technical cooperation programme. Her work with the IAEA focused on individual monitoring and regulatory compliance to enhance occupational radiation protection in Lebanon. This was in alignment with the IAEA’s International Basic Safety Standards, which serve as a benchmark for radiation safety.
Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, Rizk has remained committed to providing dosimetry services that adhere to international standards. Her dedication to radiation protection and research has been consistently noted by her peers. Filip Vanhavere, a Radiation Protection Research Coordinator at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, worked with Rizk on an IAEA mission to the Lebanese laboratory. He observed that her passion for the field and her steadfast commitment to excellence have always been evident.
Radiation protection is a critical aspect of modern science and medicine, ensuring that the benefits of radiation in diagnostics and treatment do not come at the expense of safety. Professionals like Chadia Rizk play an essential role in this field, safeguarding workers and patients alike. Her groundbreaking work in Lebanon not only enhances local standards but also contributes to the global discourse on radiation safety and protection.
Given her accomplishments and ongoing efforts, Rizk serves as an inspiring figure in the scientific community, demonstrating how dedication and expertise can lead to significant advancements in safety and standards. Her story is a testament to the importance of international collaboration and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the face of challenges. As radiation technology continues to evolve, the need for skilled professionals like Rizk becomes even more paramount, ensuring that advancements are matched by rigorous safety measures.
In summary, Chadia Rizk’s journey through the realm of radiation protection and dosimetry is a remarkable example of leadership and innovation. Her achievements have not only elevated the standards of radiation safety in the Middle East but have also set a precedent for future developments in the field. Her work continues to inspire and guide others in the pursuit of safe and effective use of radiation across various sectors.
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